JAY, Okla, — Thoma Kay Brown, 80, of Jay, Okla., died Feb. 4, 2019.
She was born July 15, 1938, in Chico, Calif., to Thomas and Gladys (Owen) Dwyer. She grew up on an almond farm in Durham, Calif. and went to school, through high school, in Durham. She graduated with a degree in special education from San Diego State University. She was a special education teacher for 45 years. She was awarded the honor of Special Education Teacher of the Decade near the end of her career for the impact she made as both a caring educator and dedicated mentor. She was an integral part of the CCPRA and CHSRA rodeo associations. She was dedicated to the sport of rodeo as a spouse, mother and administrator for more than 15 years. She retired to Jay, Okla.,/Maysville, Ark., in 1997.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Billy Brown; and her sister, Lynn Dempsey.
She is survived by her two children, Shawn Brown and Shannon Brown; along with granddaughters, Kylee Brown, Skylar Brown and Laney Brown.
A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Gravette. Arrangements are by Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory, Bella Vista.